Name : Laily Noor Fadzillah

NPM : 120401090211
Class : E 2012
VARIABLES OF EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH
Variable is a key term in research. Every research involves variables to be measured. When
the variables are not clear, it is difficult for the researcher to conduct the research. It is important,
therefore, to define the variables and to discuss the types of variables including continuous vs.
Discrate variables, independent vs. Dependent variables, and confounding variables.
Variable is the focus in any research. Without knowing what variables are involved, what
variables are involved, what the variables refer to, and what the role of the variable in the research is,
a research project cannot be conducted. In fact, research always starts with varibles.
Defining variables
Variables must be clear in construct as well as is content. Some variables can be measured physically,
like weight, height,and speed are mental constructs which require operational definitions to measure.
Types of variables
Variables can be identified based on the characteristic into continuous or discrete variables, or from
their roles in research into dependent, independent, or confounding variables. A certain research
design requires a certain type of variables.
Continuous variables
Variables are classified as continuous if they show gradational differences in the
same trait possessed by individuals. These variables can be explained by the adjective
modifier, very and more. Continuous variables can be used in correlation research,
but cannot be use in causal designs to measure.
Discrete variables
This variables are naturally categorical, like sex or handedness which gives the choice
of either male or female, right handed or left handed. Discrete variables can be used
in causal designs to measure thee effect of, for example, sex to students
achievement.
Independent ad deependeent variables
Independent and dependent variables are used in causal designs which measure the
effect of independent variables to the dependent variables.
Confounding variables
Confounding refers to interfering unexpectedly. Variables are considered
confounding if their presence unexpectedly interfere research outcomes, and therefore
needs to be controlled.

Source:
Latief, Mohammad Adnan. (2014) Research Method On Language Learning And Intropduction.
Malang: UM Press